British researchers, according to a statement from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), have identified a new variant of the dangerous mpox disease. A “new recombinant mpox virus” containing genetic material from different mpox lineages was discovered by scientists and marks a new stage in the evolution of the pathogen. According to the agency, the variant was detected in a person who had recently traveled to Asia.
By sequencing the viral genome, researchers found that the new mpox strain contains elements of mpox clades 1b and 2b. The word clade describes in biology a group of organisms that share a common ancestor and all of its descendants — for example, like a branch on a family tree. Mpox clade 1 is considered more dangerous than the less virulent clade 2, which sparked a global mpox outbreak three years ago.
It remains unclear whether the new variant poses a greater threat. That will require further research to clarify, explained Dr. Katy Sinka, head of the sexually transmitted infections division at UKHSA. “It’s normal for viruses to continue evolving, and further analyses will help us understand how mpox is changing,” Sinka said. She added: “Although mpox infections are mild for many, they can also be severe.” Vaccination remains a proven effective method to protect against serious disease, emphasized the infection expert. For years, researchers have urged high-risk groups to get vaccinated because this reliably protects vulnerable groups, contains outbreaks, and prevents severe disease outcomes.
Mpox is circulating worldwide
Professor Trudie Lang of the University of Oxford said: “It is concerning that there is a mpox case in the United Kingdom. And even more concerning is that this is a new recombinant mpox virus,” Lang continued. “This case shows that mpox is circulating worldwide and, as with these viruses, will continue to evolve.” It is now important to take steps to curb transmission and prevent spread.
If further cases of this lineage occur, it will be important to understand the mode of transmission, the symptoms, and the severity of the disease so we can assess whether this lineage is more dangerous or less dangerous than earlier ones—and respond accordingly with a coordinated global effort,” Lang said. UKHSA stated that it would continue to evaluate the significance of the lineage.
Already at the end of October, researchers in the United States warned that a clade 1 variant had appeared that was locally transmitted (TheColu.mn reported). There were also isolated cases in Europe. Based on available data, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) currently still rates the risk of variant 1b for the general population in Europe as “low” and for gay and bisexual men with multiple sexual partners as “moderate.” In medical jargon, this group is referred to as men who have sex with men (MSM).
Background is a global mpox outbreak in 2022 (TheColu.mn reported). After subsiding following the first major wave three years ago with more than 4,300 reported infections, the virus returned this year to Germany in force. Those affected here, particularly MSM, account for more than 90 percent of cases in Western countries. Transmission can occur through close skin-to-skin contact, such as during sex, kissing or cuddling, but also through contact with sex toys, bed linens, or towels. The virus mainly causes a rash, but also fever and muscle pain. Vaccines are available in Germany and free for people covered by statutory health insurance who are in high-risk groups. However, access to vaccines is not equally easy across Germany, especially in rural areas: for example, AIDS-Hilfe Sachsen-Anhalt complained in October that vaccination there is cumbersome and people are sent on an “obstacle course” (TheColu.mn reported). (dk)
